Whitecaps part ways with Robson

The Vancouver Whitecaps took the first step to ending their Scottish experiment moving midfielder Barry Robson out of the club.

As SBI reported last week, the Whitecaps were looking to end their relationship with the Scottish international, Monday the club made it official announcing that it has parted ways with the Designated Player.

“We are thankful for the contributions Barry made during his time with the club. Unfortunately Barry and his family never fully settled in Vancouver, and we’ve mutually decided to move in different directions,” said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi said in a team press release. “On behalf of the club, I wish Barry the very best in the next stage of his career.”

According to a club release, the move was a mutually agreed to by both the player and coach and ends after an unsuccessful half season with the Caps.

Robson signed what was believed to be a three year contract with the Whitecaps in June after two and a half seasons with the English Championship side Middlesbrough FC. The Scottish international was expected to be a big addition to the Vancouver midfield. Those aspirations, however, were never met as Robson failed to make a big impact, scoring just three goals and two assists in 18 appearances.

In addition to Robson, SBI reported last week that the Whitecaps are also looking to unload fellow countryman Kenny Miller, though that move may be tougher than getting rid of Robson was. Monday, SBI learned that Argentine Martin Bonjour may join the Scottish pair on the way out as the club looks to move the defender who made 27 starts in 2012.

—

Is Robson’s exile addition by subtraction as the club tries to get faster? Think Miller and Bonjour be the next to go?

No, wrong. The Whitecaps had better midfielders on their roster when they signed Robson to a DP contract. I dont know what sort of politics were going on, but it is obvious that something other than putting out the best starting XI and winning games was the priority.

Absolutely agree with you regarding trying to develop home-grown talent. Getting fed up with once-greats trading heavily on past performance, but failing miserably.

I follow the Whitecaps very closely, and Robson does not have the pace to play in the MLS, and I doubt very much that he will last, if signed at all, in the SPL or the Championship.

A major contributor to his early departure was his on-field demeanor toward teammates. His combative nature didn’t translate well here in Vancouver. We Canadians like a good scrap – as long as it’s between us and the opposition.